Helping Your Dog in a Heatwave

How to Help Your Dog in a Heatwave

We're experiencing some pretty high temperatures in the UK this week and there's more to come! It's important to remember that whilst dogs in other countries are completely fine with a 28 degree heat, ours are just not accustomed to it and will struggle as much as we do.

How hot is 'too hot' for dogs in the UK?

There's no hard and fast rule here as every dog is different - but generally it's a good idea to avoid walking them in heat over 20 degrees. Brachycephalic/Flat Faced dogs, Older dogs, Double coated dogs, Large dogs and this with heart or health conditions may have a lot lower heat tolerance so always monitor your dog and make sure they are comfortable.

Every dog is different but as heatstroke in dogs can be extremely dangerous and often fatal, it's important to do as much as you can to look after your best friend in this weather and to know what to do if you think your dog might have heatstroke.

How to Prepare your Dog for Hot Weather

• Plan your walks early in the morning and late in the evening so that your dogs get their exercise and get out of the house in the coolest time of day
• Keep activity low impact and low intensity - no ball chasing, running or cycling!
• Walk in woodlands or by a water source if possible
• Avoid the beach in the heat - whilst the sea is cool, the sand can be too hot for their paws
• Provide shaded areas and water in gardens - paddling pools or sprinklers are great!
• Close blind or curtains and open windows to create shade and a breeze in the home.
• Use a fan, air cooler or aircon unit if you have access to one
• Provide plenty of cool, fresh drinking water at all times
• Provide cooling mats on floors and in crates (you can pick these up for around £5 in most bargain stores)
• Use a cooling vest or neck gaiter if possible
• Prepare some frozen enrichment toys to keep your dog occupied during the day and cool at the same time
• If you don't have access to a garden and need to take your dog out for toilet breaks during the day - try to avoid hot pavements! If this isn't possible - think about getting your dog some protective booties to protect their paw pads from burning.
• Avoid taking your dog out in the car (unless air conditioned throughout of course) and NEVER leave your dog in the car, even with the windows down!

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs

It's vital to keep an eye on your dog in hot weather and to be aware of the signs of heatstroke - which can be fatal to dogs. Here are some things to look out for:

• Heavy Panting
• Foaming at the mouth or heavy drooling
• Lethargic or drowsy
• Uncooordinated/clumsy/confused
• Collapse
• Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea

Your dog may display a few or a combination of these symptoms - not necessarily all of them so keep a close eye on them and as soon as any one of these starts to appear, you need to take action.

What to Do if You Think Your Dog Has Heatstroke

Acting fast here can save your dog's life. Heatstroke can be highly dangerous to dogs. Here are some initial first aid steps you can take while you seek advice from your Vet.

• Take them out of the heat - indoors or into the shade - carry them if necessary
• Offer cool, fresh water - NOT ICED - just cold from the tap
• Create a breeze, either with a fan or from an open window
• Lie them on a cold, wet towel or cooling mat 
• Start to soak their body with cool water - again - NOT ICED - just cold water from a hose or tap is perfect
• Do not cover them with wet towels or blankets
• Continue to soak their body with cool water, sponge or pour under their belly and armpits and between hind legs - Avoid the nose, mouth and eyes.
• Call your vet immediately for further instructions.
• Do Not use ice packs, Ice or Iced water for suspected heatstroke - stick to cold water from a river, loch/lake or the tap. 

If your dog is fit, healthy and active and is not showing any signs of heatstroke, giving them iced water, frozen treats or ice cubes is perfectly safe. However, if a dog is suffering from heatstroke, the sudden, extreme change of temperature can cause their body to go into shock which can be extremely serious so please do NOT use ice or anything frozen if you suspect your dog has heatstroke.

A dog never died from missing a walk! Remember to contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog may have heatstroke.